From the FDA Drug Label
1.3 Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis
Apixaban tablets are indicated for the treatment of DVT.
1.4 Treatment of Pulmonary Embolism
Apixaban tablets are indicated for the treatment of PE.
1.5 Reduction in the Risk of Recurrence of DVT and PE
Apixaban tablets are indicated to reduce the risk of recurrent DVT and PE following initial therapy.
1.2 Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis
XARELTO is indicated for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
1.3 Treatment of Pulmonary Embolism
XARELTO is indicated for the treatment of pulmonary embolism (PE).
1.4 Reduction in the Risk of Recurrence of Deep Vein Thrombosis and/or Pulmonary Embolism
XARELTO is indicated for the reduction in the risk of recurrence of DVT and/or PE in adult patients at continued risk for recurrent DVT and/or PE after completion of initial treatment lasting at least 6 months.
Anticoagulant options for nonocclusive subsegmental pulmonary emboli include:
- Apixaban 1
- Rivaroxaban 2 Both apixaban and rivaroxaban are indicated for the treatment of pulmonary embolism.
From the Research
For nonocclusive subsegmental pulmonary emboli in the left lower lobe, anticoagulation therapy with apixaban is recommended due to its effectiveness in preventing recurrent venous thromboembolism and major bleeding events, as demonstrated in a retrospective population-based cohort analysis 3. The standard treatment for nonocclusive subsegmental pulmonary emboli involves the use of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), with apixaban being a preferred option due to its favorable pharmacological profile and fixed dosing regimen.
- The dosage of apixaban is typically 5 mg twice daily, with treatment duration depending on whether the pulmonary embolism is provoked or unprovoked.
- For provoked pulmonary emboli, treatment duration is typically 3 months, while unprovoked cases may require at least 6 months to indefinite treatment, depending on bleeding risk assessment 4.
- Patient-specific factors, including renal function, drug interactions, and cost, should be considered when choosing between DOACs and traditional therapy.
- Early ambulation is encouraged, and compression stockings may be considered if there is associated deep vein thrombosis.
- A recent study found that apixaban was associated with a decreased risk of recurrent venous thromboembolism and major bleeding events compared to rivaroxaban, making it a safe and effective therapeutic option for patients with venous thromboembolism 3.
- Another study highlighted the importance of considering patient-specific factors, such as renal function and drug interactions, when selecting an anticoagulant for the treatment of venous thromboembolism 5.
- The use of apixaban has been extensively studied, but there is still a need for further research in certain populations, such as patients with cancer, low or high body weight, or poor renal function 5.